Lisbon Region - You too will fall in love...

The question is what doesn't the Lisbon region have in abundance? Overloaded with so much diversity, we just don't know where to begin.The Lisbon region is the smallest region on mainland Portugal with a population circa. 3 million. With its glorious capital city Lisboa (Lisbon) radiating from the mouth of the Rio Tejo (Tagus River), the largest river in the Iberian Peninsula, the Lisbon region is literally overflowing with an array of spectacular goodies. In 1755 Lisbon was hit by a massive earthquake which left the city in complete devastation and entirely demolished. The city centre, the Baixa, was completely rebuilt and is where the majority of tourists flock to today for its shops, restaurants and cafes.

Further along the river and uphill you will come across the Bairo Alto which comes alive at night with its eclectic bars and music from around the world such as Latin American, Jazz, African as well as many others and of course the traditional Portuguese Fado. Many may not be aware but Lisbon also offers a sound nightlife too, with its lively bars and clubs, even the streets get packed especially in the summer months - it's sizzling hot and yet really cool! From the very old to the very new, Lisbon has just so much to offer. A romantic city at heart, manifesting temptation on every corner, be it for the history and culture lovers, art and music lovers or even just the lovers.

To the east, the dominating Vasco da Gama bridge overlooks the contemporary Parque das Nacoes district which was rebuilt and renovated for Expo '98 and is based on a maritime theme in celebration of Portugal's vast world discoveries and heritage. The seven hills distinguishes the city of Lisbon from any other. Wander through its lovely cobbled streets and admire the tiling in the old town, it will unquestionably draw you in. Take a ride on one of the pretty traditional trams and allow yourself to be taken on a journey back in time, let yourself be seduced by all that Lisbon has to offer. Take in the sights from its splendid castle overlooking the city and absorb its palaces, cathedrals, monuments and marvellous old buildings everywhere you turn. And finally seek out the 'miradouros' which will present you with the most magnificent views of the city.If you follow the main coastal road west passed Alcantara, (established as a main world port), you will leave the beautiful city of Lisbon behind and encounter the glamorous Estoril with its fabulous casino protruding from the sophiticated surroundings. Further along this ravishing coastal drive you will enter the distinguished Cascais, continuing with the luxurious feel exuding from its villas, shops, marina, golf courses and nightlife. The coastline heading north offers the best surfing beaches in Portugal, such as the Guincho, Sintra beaches, Ericeira, Peniche and Nazare, also perfect for other watersports as well as sunbathing. If you have time take a boat trip out to the fantastic island of Berlengas, with its awesome fortress you will not be disappointed. Then make your way inland to the pretty medieval town of Obidos, wonderfully encircled by a castle wrapping you up in all its charm.Heading north and inland from Lisbon, you will feel that you have entered the most realistic magical kingdom plucked straight from a fairytale, Portugal's jewel in the crown, the enchanting Sintra. With so many gems to discover in this esoteric town, you'll definitely need to stay a while to unveil each one individually. About a 1.5 hours drive north from Lisbon up the A1 make sure you visit Portugal's most religious location, Fatima. It is very spiritual indeed, millions of pilgrims flock here each and every year as it is famed for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to the shepherd children. If you fancy following the religious and historic trail visit both Batalha and Alcobaca for their exquisite gothic/medieval monasteries - you will be captivated, they're both very impressive and awe-inspiring. Then further east make sure you visit Tomar, which was a former Knights Templar and where the extraordinary Convento de Cristo (Christ's Convent) proudly sits today. Also, further inland heading east from Lisbon, the Ribatejo region offers the most wonderful array of lagoons as well as being a great destination for nature lovers. Visit Santarem which is renowned for being the main centre for bull and horse breeding in Portugal.From Lisbon heading south across the 25 de Abril bridge you won't be able to miss the grand statue of Christ overlooking this truly fascinating city. Veer right and you'll encounter the extensive and dramatic beach stretch starting at Trafaria all the way down the coastline and round to the charming fishing village Sesimbra and onto Setubal, also a main fishing town. This stretch is divided into many individual beaches, each with its own terrific characteristics. And to top it off drive through the marvellous Serra da Arrabida, a superb nature park, plus don't miss experiencing the Sado estuary nature reserve for a spot of dolphin watching.Whatever takes your fancy, your heart will always be longing for more!